Tier IV has announced plans to launch an autonomous bus service in Komatsu, Ishikawa Prefecture, having obtained the Level 4 (L4) certification needed to operate it.
This certification applies to the entire route from Komatsu Station to Komatsu Airport and a designated section of the return route, marking a key milestone for Tier IV achieved in collaboration with local authorities and service operators.
Granted under the Road Transport Vehicle Act, the certification classifies the bus as a L4 autonomous vehicle. Upon receiving a permit under the Road Traffic Act, it will be authorized to operate autonomously within predefined routes, detecting surrounding vehicles and pedestrians while adhering to designated environmental conditions.
This latest service from Tier IV builds on its earlier partnership with Komatsu City, BOLDLY, Aisan Technology, and Sompo Japan in a strategic partnership to establish a year-round autonomous bus service. It was designed to enhance connectivity between Komatsu Station and Komatsu Airport, aligning with the launch of the Hokuriku Shinkansen Komatsu Station.
Since 2023, the initiative has leveraged Tier IV’s Minibus powered by Autoware, the company’s open-source software for autonomous driving. The project also incorporated a comprehensive risk assessment conducted by Sompo Japan, and high-precision 3D mapping technology developed by Aisan Technology, as well as remote monitoring and fleet management supported by BOLDLY.
Following an extensive period of testing and operator training, the paid year-round autonomous bus service began in March 2024. By the end of February 2025, the service had transported over 18,000 passengers, a figure that Tier IV says demonstrates the growing demand and feasibility of autonomous public transit solutions. Looking ahead, the company will continue to drive research, development, and proof of concept tests to accelerate the widespread rollout of autonomous driving.
